France boss Didier Deschamps has signed a contract extension to lead Les Bleus until the 2026 World Cup, ending speculation he could resign, as he tries to help the team overcome their pain in Qatar after losing to Argentina
- Didier Deschamps has agreed a contract extension to remain France manager
- Deschamps is set to lead the national team in the next two major tournaments
- The 54-year-old is considering his future after the World Cup final defeat
- Deschamps has been in charge of the French national team since 2012
Didier Deschamps has agreed to a contract extension to remain as coach of the French national team until the end of the 2026 World Cup.
The French Football Federation confirmed that Deschamps’ new deal will run until the end of June 2026, taking him through to the end of the next World Cup – ending fears he could leave after their heartbreaking World Cup final losing to Argentina.
The extension will see Deschamps lead the French national team at the next two major tournaments, having been at the helm of Les Bleus since 2012.
Didier Deschamps has agreed to extend his contract as France national team manager
Deschamps announced the deal during a meeting of the French Football Federation in Paris
Deschamps announced the extension at the General Assembly of the French Football Federation in Paris.
‘Obviously I am grateful to the president for his continued support and his continued trust,’ said Deschamps, according to Le Parisien.
‘It is something important to the functioning of the French team.
‘I realized since I came back the emotions and passion that this World Cup has created.
‘There was a lot of passion and support.
‘We have two big games against the Netherlands and against Ireland in March, on the way to qualifying for Euro 2024 in Germany.
‘You can count on me, on all the staff to ensure that the French team remains at the highest international level.’
Deschamps admitted he was thinking about his future after the World Cup final loss
France lost to Argentina on penalties after a thrilling final in Qatar last month
The French Football Federation praised the extension, highlighting Deschamps’ exceptional record with the national team.
There has been speculation that France legend and former Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane could take over after the 2022 World Cup.
Deschamps led France to their second World Cup victory at the 2018 tournament in Russia, before struggling to retain their crown in Qatar.
France were beaten on penalties by Argentina in the final, following a thrilling 3-3 draw after extra time.
Deschamps also led France to the Euro 2016 final, as well as winning the Nations League in 2021.
He will remain in charge of the national team for the next two major tournaments, with qualification starting in March for Euro 2024 in Germany.
FFF President Noel Le Graet, rightly, is determined to keep Deschamps as manager
Deschamps’ contract will see him on course to lead France to a fourth consecutive World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026.
His assistant Guy Stephan, goalkeeper coach Franck Raviot, and fitness coach Cyril Moine will also remain in their positions.
French Football Federation President Noel Le Graet, who appointed Deschamps in 2012, has been vocal in his desire to keep the 54-year-old in charge.
Le Graet spoke with Deschamps last month, with the official hinting that the coach could lead the team to the 2030 World Cup.
Contract talks have reportedly centered on the option of a two-year deal for Euro 2024, with the possibility of an extension to the 2026 World Cup, as well as a four-year contract.
Deschamps reportedly pushed for a four-year contract, according to Le Parisien, which has now been agreed.
